When choosing a shoe for your treadmill walks, consider the mechanism and environment and how they affect your feet. On a treadmill, your foot doesn't need to propel itself forward as when you walk outdoors. Instead, your legs try to catch up with the constant motion of the treadmill. This means that treadmill users tend to wear most heavily on the heel of their shoes. The friction of the belt can also generate more heat in the shoe, which can make your feet overly warm in heavy walking shoes.
The Right Type of Shoe
Athletic shoes designed specifically for use on the treadmill can provide you with features such as an extra-cushioned heel and superior breathability that can make your treadmill runs more comfortable. Since walking is a low-impact activity, treadmill-specific shoes are probably not necessary if you only walk on the treadmill. Closed-toe supportive walking or running shoes can provide the stability and cushioning necessary for treadmill walks, according to the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine.
Considerations
If you plan to use the shoe exclusively on a treadmill, you can forgo bulky cross-training shoes designed for running on uneven or unpaved surfaces. Consider the shape of your feet and your past injury pattern when selecting a shoe for your treadmill walks. If you frequently experience joint pain in your knees, ankles, hips or back, choose a shoe with extra cushioning and padding. To prevent corns, bunions and blisters, select a shoe with a wide toe box.
High-Performance Shoes
Treadmill walkers who plan to walk more than 30 miles a week should choose a high-performance shoe, according to Liz Neporent, a fitness instructor and author of "Fitness Walking for Dummies." Features to look for in a high-performance treadmill shoe include reinforced heel counters, stability straps, extra cushioning in the heel and ball of the foot and sturdy, supportive uppers made of breathable nylon mesh.
Tips for Getting the Right Fit
No matter how expensive or high-rated a shoe might be, it is only the best for you if it feels comfortable and stable on your foot. Neoporent suggests shopping at a specialty store instead of a discount store or department store. The staff at specialty stores can make personalized recommendations based on your foot shape and workout patterns. Fully lace up the shoe and walk around the store in it for a few minutes. It should feel comfortable right out of the box. Shoe shop in the late afternoon or evening when your foot is at its biggest size.
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